Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Ethiopian Highlands' escarpment and gorge systems during takeoff are visually superior to the landing approach. While left seats offer good Johannesburg views, the highlands terrain is more geographically distinctive and visually striking.
Flown ADD to HLA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Addis Ababa to Johannesburg is 2,521 miles (4,057 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the East African plateau southwestward, passing over the Rift Valley system (visible as a series of escarpments and valley floors), the highlands of central Ethiopia and northern Kenya, and eventually transitions into the flatter terrain of the East African plateau before descending into South Africa's Highveld. The Blue Nile and its tributaries create visible gorge systems in the northern portion. Lake Turkana may be visible on clear days from the right side during the midpoint of the flight. The landscape gradually transitions from volcanic highlands to more open grassland and savanna as the aircraft moves south.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ADD
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Ethiopian Highlands immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs southwestward from Addis Ababa, and right-side windows capture the dramatic escarpment terrain and elevated plateau that defines the region's geography.
Landing at HLA
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Lanseria. The approach path from the north brings the Witwatersrand Basin and Johannesburg's urban sprawl into clear view on the left side, along with the transition from highveld grassland to developed areas.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bole International (ADD) to Lanseria (HLA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Addis Ababa to Johannesburg. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Ethiopian Highlands' escarpment and gorge systems during takeoff are visually superior to the landing approach. While left seats offer good Johannesburg views, the highlands terrain is more geographically distinctive and visually striking.
What can I see during takeoff from Bole International in Addis Ababa?
During takeoff from Bole International (ADD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Ethiopian Highlands immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs southwestward from Addis Ababa, and right-side windows capture the dramatic escarpment terrain and elevated plateau that defines the region's geography. Notable sights include: Ethiopian Highlands plateau, Addis Ababa urban sprawl receding northward, Entoto Mountains to the north, Blue Nile gorge system beginning to form in the distance.
What can I see when landing at Lanseria in Johannesburg?
When landing at Lanseria (HLA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Lanseria. The approach path from the north brings the Witwatersrand Basin and Johannesburg's urban sprawl into clear view on the left side, along with the transition from highveld grassland to developed areas. Notable sights include: Johannesburg metropolitan area and mining dumps (distinctive white/yellow tailings visible from altitude), Witwatersrand ridge line, Lanseria airport and surrounding Gauteng province, Magaliesburg Mountains to the northwest.
How long is the flight from Addis Ababa to Johannesburg?
The flight from Bole International (ADD) to Lanseria (HLA) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,521 miles (4,057 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Addis Ababa to Johannesburg flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the East African plateau southwestward, passing over the Rift Valley system (visible as a series of escarpments and valley floors), the highlands of central Ethiopia and northern Kenya, and eventually transitions into the flatter terrain of the East African plateau before descending into South Africa's Highveld. The Blue Nile and its tributaries create visible gorge systems in the northern portion. Lake Turkana may be visible on clear days from the right side during the midpoint of the flight. The landscape gradually transitions from volcanic highlands to more open grassland and savanna as the aircraft moves south.